Talavera…An Iconic Artistic Tradition In Puebla, Mx

During my stay in Puebla, I came across a craft that I have seen many times in my travels in Spain and Mexico, but knew very little of its origin and production. The “Talavera”, as it is called, is an artisanal technique of pottery and tile making that uses a type of clay mainly found in Puebla. I visited two certified “talleres” on how it is manufactured with very little modernization. Its origin (referring to its ornamentation) was first perfected by the Chinese during the 15th century. Yet today, it is the Chinese who present a threat to this iconic tradition. Here’s how.

But First a Bit of History…

Before this custom of making pottery and tiles appeared in Mexico in the 16th century, it first blossomed in the town of Talavera de la Reina in Spain, hence its name (originally known as “Maiolica”). The pottery-making heavily influenced by the artistry of Chinese and Muslims somehow was introduced to the newfound city of Puebla by potters from Seville, Spain. This created a new industry in Mexico for fired clay. As can be expected, the industry flourished, requiring a need to regulate the craft to ensure its authenticity. (Hard to believe that in the 16th century there were actual ordinances and regulations to control an industry.) Eventually, between wars, competition, cheaper products, among other factors, the…